Parents of current and future IB students are involved in an important decision-making process regarding the education of their child and may be keen to understand the IB programmes as well as the challenges and advantages they may bring.

IB World Schools aim to provide parents with enough detailed information to answer any concerns, and we encourage parents to contact the IB coordinator of their child's school in order to discuss any doubts or queries they may have.

If a school is not listed on this site, it has not been authorized to offer an IB programme and cannot present itself as an IB World School.

You can find full contact details of all IB World Schools by using the "Find an IB World School" option on the left-hand side of every page.

Candidate schools

Schools that are preparing to be authorized are known as "candidate schools".

If you don't know whether your school is a "candidate school", ask your regional office.

What is so special about IB programmes?

• IB programmes are recognized around the world and ensure an increased adaptability and mobility for IB students.
• The curriculum and pedagogy of IB programmes focus on international perspectives of learning and teaching, while insisting that students fully explore their home culture and language.
• IB World Schools must undergo an exhaustive authorization process in order to offer one or more of the programmes, which includes a study of the school's resources and commitment to the IB mission and philosophy.
• IB teachers participate in a wide variety of professional development opportunities to constantly update their knowledge and share their expertise with colleagues around the world.
• Many students graduating from the Diploma Programme find that it enhances their opportunities at tertiary institutions. The IB works closely with universities around the world to gain recognition for IB programmes.
• The core components of IB programmes encourage students to participate in creative and service-oriented activities, while at the same time emphasizing the importance of reflection on a personal and academic level.
• The IB produces publications for schools to inform and support them as they offer IB courses. It is now beginning to produce material for use directly with students and to work closely with selected publishers and providers to offer material for students. These materials only will carry an IB logo.